CJ SO COOL

 CJ So Cool: From Humble Beginnings to YouTube Stardom

Early Life and Background

Cordero James Brady, known online as CJ So Cool, was born on March 29, 1989, in Gary, Indiana. His early life was marked by challenges, including his father's incarceration and his mother's struggles with drug addiction. Raised by his maternal grandmother, CJ faced financial hardships but remained determined to create a better future for himself. 

Military Service and Early Career

After high school, CJ enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served as part of the Presidential Guard. Following his military service, he worked as a blackjack, poker, and craps dealer at various casinos. These experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a desire to pursue greater opportunities. 

Rise to YouTube Fame

In December 2014, CJ launched his YouTube channel, CJ SO COOL. Initially focusing on reaction videos, his content quickly gained popularity for its humor and relatability. With the support of his younger brother, Anthony "Jinx" Brady, CJ expanded his content to include pranks, challenges, and vlogs. His engaging personality and creative content have attracted a substantial following, with over 9 million subscribers as of 2025. 

Personal Life

CJ's personal life has been a significant aspect of his online presence. He was in a long-term relationship with Charlene "Royalty" Johnson, with whom he has twins, Cordayah and Cordero Jr., born in 2020. CJ also has a daughter, Camari, from a previous relationship and is the stepfather to Royalty's three children from her prior relationship. 

Controversies and Challenges

Throughout his career, CJ has faced several controversies. In 2015, his YouTube channel was hacked, resulting in the deletion of all his videos. He rebuilt his channel from scratch, demonstrating resilience and dedication. Additionally, some of his prank videos have drawn criticism for being insensitive, leading to content removals and public apologies. 

Lifestyle and Net Worth

CJ is known for his lavish lifestyle, often showcased in his videos. He owns a 4-acre mansion in Las Vegas, featuring 12 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and two guest houses. His car collection includes luxury vehicles like a Jeep, Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, and Chevrolet Camaro. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $6 million, earned through YouTube ad revenue, brand partnerships, and merchandise sales. 

Conclusion

CJ So Cool's journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a prominent YouTube personality exemplifies determination and adaptability. His ability to connect with audiences through humor and authenticity has solidified his place in the digital entertainment landscape.